When you’ve decided to embark on the journey of starting a new business, one of the most significant hurdles you’ll face is how to share this exciting news with your close circle—family and friends. It can feel overwhelming and a bit awkward at first. You want to express your enthusiasm, but there’s a fear of their potential judgment or doubts about your venture. How do you share your vision without feeling self-conscious or having your excitement dampened?
In this guide, I’ll help you navigate this tricky terrain, making the process easier, more natural, and even more exciting. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a first-time business owner, or someone who’s passionate about a new project, the way you communicate your startup journey to those around you matters.
Why It Feels Awkward to Share Your Startup News
Before we get into the how-to, let’s take a moment to understand why telling family and friends about your new startup feels so awkward. It’s not just about the business; it’s about the emotion behind it. Starting a new business is an intimate journey. You’re pouring your energy, hopes, and dreams into something that represents your ambitions, fears, and even insecurities.
- Fear of judgment: You may fear that your loved ones will question the viability of your business idea. What if they think it’s unrealistic?
- Imposter syndrome: You might doubt yourself and wonder if you’re ready to be a business owner or if you have what it takes.
- Pressure of expectations: There’s often a pressure to succeed, especially when you’re sharing something so personal.
- Fear of failure: No one wants to be the person who brings bad news to friends and family. The idea of letting them down can be a daunting thought.
While these feelings are natural, they shouldn’t hold you back. You’ve made the bold decision to pursue your dreams, and now it’s time to share that excitement with those who care about you most.
The Benefits of Sharing Your Startup News Early
Telling family and friends about your startup early on can have many benefits that will help you in the long run. The hesitation might stem from the belief that you need everything figured out before you tell others, but in reality, getting support early can be a powerful tool.
- Building a support network: By sharing your plans early, you can tap into the wisdom, resources, and emotional support of those around you.
- Accountability: When people know about your business, they’ll naturally become invested in its success. This can serve as a motivating force to keep moving forward.
- Gathering feedback: Early conversations can give you valuable insights that help refine your ideas.
- Attracting early customers or investors: You may be surprised by how many of your family and friends can help in a tangible way—whether through referrals, investments, or even providing a test market for your product.
Let’s break down how you can effectively share your business news with your loved ones.
How to Tell Family and Friends About Your Startup Without Feeling Awkward
1. Be Honest About Your Excitement and Your Fears
Start by opening up about your excitement and any nervousness you may have. Being vulnerable about your emotions helps humanize you and your entrepreneurial journey. Instead of presenting your startup as something perfect or without challenges, share that it’s a work in progress and you are just as nervous as anyone else about this venture.
Example:
“Hey, I’ve been working on something really exciting for a while now. I’ve decided to start my own business, and I have to admit, I’m a bit nervous, but also really excited. It’s been a huge dream of mine, and I’d love to get your thoughts and feedback.”
2. Choose the Right Time and Place
It’s essential to choose a moment when both you and your listeners are in the right frame of mind. If you’re telling them at a family gathering or party, the news may not land as smoothly as it would during a quiet one-on-one conversation.
If possible, choose a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can have an uninterrupted conversation. This could be during a coffee catch-up, a dinner, or even a virtual call with a close friend or relative.
3. Share the Story Behind the Idea
Instead of diving directly into business talk, give them a glimpse into the journey that led to your decision to start a business. The more you share about your thought process, the more they’ll connect with your passion and purpose. Make the conversation personal—people love to hear the story of how things came to be.
Example:
“I’ve been thinking about this for a long time, and it all started when I [describe a pivotal moment]. I realized that [explain the realization or spark] and just knew I had to do something about it.”
4. Prepare for Questions—and Stay Calm
When you tell your family and friends about your new startup, expect questions. Be prepared to answer them, but also be confident enough to say, “I’m still figuring that part out” if necessary. This shows that you’re honest and not afraid to ask for help or be vulnerable.
Here are some common questions they may ask:
- How are you going to make money?
- Who’s your target market?
- What’s your unique selling point?
- Have you thought about your competition?
Having clear, thought-out answers for these common queries will make the conversation flow much more smoothly.
5. Encourage Their Support, But Don’t Expect It All
Your friends and family may offer all sorts of support, from advice to resources. However, it’s important not to place too much expectation on them. You don’t want your loved ones to feel burdened by your venture.
If they offer practical support, like helping you find contacts or giving you a boost of confidence, accept it graciously. If they don’t immediately show excitement, that’s okay too. Everyone has their own way of reacting to new ventures, and sometimes people need time to come around.
Example:
“I totally understand if this feels sudden or new for you. But your support, whether through feedback or just being there to listen, would mean the world to me.”
6. Be Clear About What You Need from Them
When you share your startup news, be specific about how they can help, whether it’s through moral support, advice, or referrals. Don’t expect them to understand all the ins and outs of your business, but let them know what kind of help you’re seeking.
Example:
“I’m still in the early stages, but I’d love it if you could help me get the word out to your network. If you know anyone who might be interested in my services, I’d appreciate an introduction.”
Conclusion: Embrace the Journey and Celebrate Your Support
Telling your family and friends about your new startup doesn’t have to be awkward. With the right approach, you can turn this moment into an exciting opportunity to share your passion and build your support network. Remember, you’re not just asking for validation, but inviting those who care about you to join you in your journey. By being honest, open, and clear about your needs, you set the foundation for meaningful relationships that could help propel your startup forward.
Sharing the news is just the beginning—stay motivated, stay connected, and celebrate every milestone along the way. It’s not just about launching a business; it’s about sharing your dreams with the people who matter most to you.
For additional insights, consider checking out Marketing Consulting, where you can learn strategies to refine your startup’s messaging. If you’re looking for personal coaching as a leader in this new venture, explore Leadership Executive Coaching for tailored advice and guidance. Don’t forget to visit Pedro Vaz Paulo’s profile for more updates and useful tips.
